What role do spark plugs play in reducing emissions?

1. Improve combustion efficiency
Spark plugs ensure that the fuel is fully burned by precisely controlling the ignition timing and optimizing the combustion process. A fully burned mixture can reduce the emission of harmful substances such as unburned hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). For example, using iridium spark plugs or catalyst-covered spark plugs (such as Glow Plugs) can significantly reduce HC and NOx emissions.

2. Reduce unburned hydrocarbons (UHC)
The ignition performance of the spark plug directly affects the completeness of combustion. If the ignition is poor or the combustion is incomplete, it will lead to increased UHC emissions. Studies have shown that the use of high-performance spark plugs (such as dual-electrode or side-gap spark plugs) can effectively reduce UHC emissions.

3. Reduce carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions
Spark plugs can reduce the generation of CO and NOx by optimizing the combustion temperature and pressure. For example, when using iridium spark plugs, CO and NOx emissions are significantly reduced. In addition, catalyst-covered spark plugs (such as Glow Plugs) also show good emission reduction effects in diesel engines.

4. Improve particulate matter (PN) emissions
In diesel engines, spark plugs can reduce particulate matter emissions by providing additional heat to promote complete combustion of fuel.

5. Improve fuel economy
High-performance spark plugs can improve fuel utilization and reduce fuel waste, thereby indirectly reducing exhaust emissions. For example, the dual spark plug ignition system (DPDIS) improves engine power and fuel economy by optimizing the combustion process.

6. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Spark plugs help reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by improving combustion efficiency and reducing the emission of unburned fuel. For example, the use of platinum or iridium spark plugs can further reduce CO2 emissions.

7. Adapt to stricter environmental regulations
As environmental regulations become increasingly stringent, spark plug technology is also constantly improving. High-performance spark plugs can help vehicles meet stricter emission standards, such as the Euro VI standard